HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS STATEMENT
Tuesday 14th August 2007 –As of 11am this morning Tropical Storm Dean was located near 11.7 North latitude and 39.4 west longitude or about 1490 miles east of the Lesser Antilles.  Currently the storm is moving towards the west near 23 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds near 40 miles per hour with higher gusts.  Forecasters predict that the storm will strengthen gradually over the next 24 hours.
 
This is the first system that has shown potential for development in 2007. As we enter the peak of what is expected to be an active hurricane season, the DDM would like to re-state the importance of being watchful and prepared.

The public is reminded that once there is a threat to the BVI, the DDM‘s emergency alert systems will be activated.  The alert system is comprised of the Siren System and the National Emergency Broadcast System.  Once the Siren is sounded, persons should tune into ZBVI, ZROD, ZKING, or ZCCR for emergency information from the National Emergency Operations Centre.  In addition, the department’s emergency webpage will also be activated.  Located on the page would be the latest weather advisories, preparedness tips, and situation reports regarding the impact of the storm on the Territory.
 
At this stage in the hurricane season, persons should have already made advance preparations.  Persons should have already updated their disaster supplies kit, yards should be clear of debris, trees overhanging the house should have already been pruned, material to protect homes should have already been procured, prescriptions should have already been filled and any other precaution should have already been taken to ensure each household is armed with the necessary tools to increase their chances of surviving the next hurricane impact.

We at the DDM are doing our part. We will continue to track the movements of storms and update the public accordingly.  We invite you to log on to our website at bviddm.com and listen to the radio for the latest weather advisories.
 
Be advised that disaster preparedness is personal, making each individual and each household responsible for their own disaster preparedness.  Please don’t be caught off guard facing the fury of a hurricane. Be aware and be prepared.

IT IS BETTER TO PREPARE AND PREVENT RATHER THAN REPAIR AND REPENT.  S. THOMAS 1856

DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT
#3 Wailing Road MacNamara
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Ph. 284-494-4499 Fax: 284-494-2024
E-Mail: [email protected]